A POLISHED performance has made Antony Buckley one of the best manicurists in the world.

Antony, 31, a nail technician from Heywood, near Rochdale, came fourth in the world nail design championships and was ranked third in the European section.

He said: "I was up against about 20 others from across Europe and a handful from the States, who are all at the top of their profession, so I was delighted to be ranked so highly."

Points were awarded for the exact length of the white of the nail to the clarity of the polished finish. Only one of a few men in the industry, Antony is based at the California Nail Academy in Bolton where he teaches.

Twice British national champion, Antony has now gone to compete in the Asian Championships in Japan.

Chemistry

He said: "It is a great job as you get to meet so many different kinds of people. It's not just filing and painting. There is a lot of chemistry involved."

Despite the annual Nail Olympics being held in London this year, Antony was unable to attend.

However, he has been to countries including South Africa, Malaysia, Poland and the US to show off his sought-after design skills.

Antony, who is employed by US company American International Industries, splits his touring with teaching commitments while still seeing clients in Bolton and in Heywood.

Maria Southgate, co-ordinator at California Nails, said: "He loves teaching beginners, but he still likes to keep his hand in with clients.

"Technicians who aren't as highly ranked as Antony can charge £200 or more for a full set of nails."